Face masks, not to be confused with those old COVID facial coverings, should belong to anyone’s skin care regimen. Applying a face mask is an amazing self-care ritual that helps you recharge the batteries. Aim to do a face mask two times per week to make your skin look and feel great. The only problem with face masks is that they can make a dent in your bank account if you enjoy them regularly. 

That’s all going to change when you start making your own face masks, like the one in this article. Not to mention, a lot of people already have the necessary ingredients for face masks at home. Most of them contain ingredients you keep in the pantry, minus some essential oils and clays or powders. This recipe contains bentonite clay, raw honey, apple cider vinegar, avocado oil, and cedarwood, sweet orange, and frankincense essential oils. 

Powdered vs. Liquid Face Masks

Ultimately, it comes down to a matter of preference. In order to apply a powdered face mask, you need to mix it with water or another liquid. Liquid face masks don’t require any additional liquids and you can easily apply them out of the bottle. Depending on the liquid face mask, though, it may or may not contain preservatives in the formulations to combat the increased risk of bacterial growth. Some synthetic preservatives can irritate the skin, but not all liquid face masks are created equal. Continue reading to learn why we love the face masks in this article. 

Honey

Incorporating honey into your skin care regimen can help calm inflammation on the skin. Many people say that they experience notably calmer and smoother skin after using honey. Additionally, honey exhibits antibacterial and antioxidant properties that may help clean out the pores. Some studies found that honey can kill several types of bacteria, but it has not been effective at killing the type of bacteria that causes acne. It may help soothe or reduce the intensity of a breakout, as opposed to getting rid of it entirely. One study found that combining honey with cinnamon bark may offer enough antibacterial properties to fight the primary bacteria that causes acne. 

Bentonite Clay

According to researchers, bentonite clay works by adsorbing oils and bacteria from the skin. It does this by sticking to the molecules or ions in the bacteria, and as you wash clay away from the body, it removes those impurities. Bentonite clay also contains iron, magnesium, and calcium, which may provide additional benefits. The clay works to remove sebum from the skin’s surface, which may help reduce the severity of breakouts. There are many anecdotal reports that say bentonite clay helps to clear up the skin and make it appear younger, but research is needed on this matter. The important thing to remember about bentonite clay is that you should never use metal bowls or utensils to mix bentonite clay with other ingredients. Use glass bowls and wooden utensils because the clay can adsorb some of the metal’s properties over time. 

DIY Honey Clay Face Mask

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons each: raw honey, avocado oil, and apple cider vinegar
• 5 drops each: sweet orange, cedarwood, and frankincense essential oil
• 1/4 cup bentonite clay

Instructions:

• In a glass bowl, combine the honey, avocado oil, apple cider vinegar, and the different essential oils with a wooden utensil. 
• While you’re stirring, pour in the bentonite clay and continue stirring until you get a smooth, thick consistency. 
• Transfer the mixture to a glass container and store in a cool, dry place. 
• Spread a thin layer of the mask on your face and leave on for 10 minutes. 
• Rinse with warm water and scrub away with a gentle exfoliant. Pat your face dry.

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Please allow us to talk about breasts for a minute. Not in the inappropriate way, but in a real grown-up, lived-in body way. Between raising children, entering a new mid-life chapter, or dealing with the bodily changes that come with aging, it can be hard to take care of yourself…and your boobs. 

Why Use Castor Oil For Breast Health?

By applying castor oil to breast tissue, you can help support overall breast wellness. A castor oil pack on the breasts can promote circulation and lymphatic flow, both of which help nourish and detox breast tissue. The theory, then, is that castor oil may help repair and maintain breast tissue. As of now, though, there is no scientific evidence that supports these claims. They are merely anecdotal and women have been applying castor oil packs to their breasts for centuries. 

Shea Butter

Shea butter is an all-purpose bag that can help nourish the skin and hair, regardless of the time of year. It works to soften, protect, and smooth, and is suitable for almost everyone. Many women find shea butter to be a great hypoallergenic balm to help maintain breast firmness. You can apply it liberally to the breasts as a natural firming treatment. Due to the moisturizing nature of shea butter, it may help reduce stretch marks, itching, and skin tightness. In fact, it helps preserve skin elasticity when used regularly. 

Beeswax

There are many beeswax nipple covers intended for breastfeeding mothers, as the beeswax helps protect the nipples from irritation. Beeswax is an emollient, humectant, and occlusive, so it soothes and softens the skin by filling in gaps and smoothing the surface. It also attracts moisture to the skin and helps the skin retain that moisture. That’s why it is highly effective for preventing nipple pain and cracking. It is highly beneficial for the skin, but no evidence suggests that it will increase breast size or firm up sagging breasts. 

Geranium Essential Oil

Commonly used in aromatherapy applications, geranium essential oil may help to reduce feelings of stress or anxiety. It may also enhance concentration, cognitive function, and help balance hormones. In cosmetic applications, geranium essential oil has a reputation for eliminating dead skin cells and tightening the skin. It may also promote the regeneration of new skin cells and diminish the signs of aging. Studies confirm that the astringent properties in geranium essential oil work to tighten the skin and reduce the appearance of sagging or wrinkling. 

DIY Firming Castor Oil Breast Balm

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons cold-pressed castor oil
• 1 tablespoon shea butter
• 1 tablespoon beeswax pellets
• 5 drops geranium essential oil
• 3 drops lavender essential oil

Instructions:

• Fill a small saucepan with about one to two inches of water and place over low heat. 
• Place a heat-safe bowl on top of the saucepan and then add the shea butter and beeswax pellets. Allow them to melt, stirring occasionally with a clean spoon or small silicone whisk. 
• Once the shea butter and beeswax are fully melted, pour in the castor oil and remove from heat. 
• Add the essential oils, mix well, and then carefully pour the mixture into a clean jar or tin. Allow it to firm up at room temperature (about an hour). 
• Once firm, screw on a lid and store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. When ready to use, warm a small amount between your hands. 
• Gently massage the balm into a clean chest and the under-breast area using slow, upward motions. Use two to three times per week, or nightly if desired.

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There are many skin care products that promise to clear up your skin and keep it blemish-free. Seldom do these products keep their promise. In fact, many of them can cause dryness, skin irritation, or other skin complications that detract from the overall health of the skin. Instead, it is better to use more natural ingredients to make a skin care product that can help cleanse and nourish the skin. 

This homemade cinnamon and honey anti-acne mask uses powerful ingredients that can help reduce breakouts and improve overall skin health. It may seem weird or different to lather honey and cinnamon on your face, but these ingredients exhibit acne-fighting abilities. Researchers claim that the compounds in these ingredients may benefit overall skin health and combat breakouts. 

Honey’s Antimicrobial Properties

Honey exhibits natural antibacterial activity that helps inhibit the growth of acne-causing bacteria. The presence of bacteria on the skin can clog pores and lead to inflammation, which results in acne. Honey also acts as a humectant, which means that it helps the skin retain moisture. That enhanced hydration can help the skin from overproducing oil, which can lead to future breakouts. If you use honey regularly, it can also help minimize the appearance of acne scars, all while keeping the skin healthy. 

Cinnamon’s Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Cinnamon contains lots of antioxidant compounds and has anti-inflammatory properties that may help soothe irritated skin. That is particularly beneficial for people suffering from acne, as inflammation tends to worsen the condition. When you apply cinnamon topically, it can help increase blood circulation to the skin. The increase in circulation helps bring more nutrients to the skin’s surface, which helps promote clearer complexion. Some of the compounds in cinnamon also exhibit antimicrobial effects that can target multiple strains of bacteria that contribute to acne. 

Working Together

If you want to address acne, you have to tackle the root cause, which tends to be bacteria, inflammation, excess oil, or all of the above. Together, cinnamon and honey create a powerful anti-acne face mask. It is a very easy mask to prepare and you don’t have to worry about melting shea or cocoa butter in a double boiler. Mix one teaspoon of cinnamon and two tablespoons of honey until well-combined. Before you apply the mask, make sure to. That step helps the skin better absorb the cinnamon and honey. 

DIY Cinnamon And Honey Anti-Acne Mask

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons raw honey

Instructions:

• In a small mixing bowl, add the cinnamon and honey and stir well to combine. The mixture should look like a uniform paste and should spread easily. 
• It is optional, but you can add a few drops of lemon juice for added exfoliation benefits. Just make sure the mixture isn’t too runny before you apply it. 
• Before applying the mask, wash your face and pat it dry. Use a clean brush or your fingers to spread the mask evenly on your face, ensuring you avoid the eye area. 
• Leave the mask on for 10 to 15 minutes before rinsing the mask off with lukewarm water. Once your face is clean, apply a hydrating moisturizer to help maintain moisture balance.

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Did you know parasites can show up on your skin? From rashes to breakouts, these hidden invaders may be linked to unexpected skin problems. Use our ParaWrm Cleanse to create an inhospitable environment for these invaders!

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When you want to avoid some of the toxic chemicals in store bought sunscreens, you can reach for this non-toxic sunscreen to protect your skin. Not only is it waterproof, but it is also safe for babies and marine life. The last thing you want to do is damage your skin (or your child’s skin) while simultaneously destroying reef and ocean life. You can truly avoid sunburn while avoiding toxic chemicals! 

Why Make Homemade Sunscreen?

There are more than enough sunscreen choices at your local supermarket, drugstore, or convenience store. Why are those traditional sunscreens not the best for your skin? Scientists note that commercial sunscreens contain a lot of ingredients that are not safe for your overall health, let alone your skin. Some common problems with conventional sunscreens include:

• Non-biodegradable chemicals typically lurk in commercial sunscreens. Some of these chemicals are known hormone disruptors and carcinogenic. The skin rapidly absorbs whatever you put on it, and you don’t want it to absorb those chemicals into the bloodstream!
• Nano zinc oxide contains particles small enough to penetrate the deep layers of the skin. That ultimately leaves the outer layers unprotected, meaning the sunscreen is ineffective at blocking UV rays. 
• Once you apply conventional sunscreen, the chemicals can seep deep into the body, reaching many of the skin’s layers. These chemicals can react with UV light and cause skin damage. Sunscreens that contain vitamin A or its derivatives, for example, may increase the risk of skin cancer, according to an evaluation of sunscreens from 2011.

Are All Sunscreens Bad?

With certain bans on chemical sunscreens in place, many manufacturers have started to make better, more natural sunscreen options. That said, you should still read the ingredient list, as many “natural” sunscreens still contain harmful ingredients. The same applies to so-called “healthy” foods, which are oftentimes not healthy. Just keep your eyes on the lookout for problematic ingredients. Fortunately, that is not something you have to do for the DIY sunscreen in this article. 

Does Homemade Sunscreen Work?

This recipe uses non-nano zinc oxide, a type of zinc oxide that has particles that are too big to seep deeply into the skin. Instead, it actually creates a physical barrier that protects the top and deeper layers of the skin from harmful UV rays. This DIY recipe also contains skin-nourishing oils, butter, and wax that protect and hydrate the skin. Some of the oils contain natural sun protection factor (SPF), which measures how well a sunscreen protects the skin from ultraviolet-B (UVB) rays. It should be known that no sunscreen can block 100% of the sun’s UVB rays. 

The oils and butter are stable fats on their own, so they don’t go rancid easily. The cocoa butter also gives the sunscreen a beautiful chocolate scent. Beeswax also contributes a lovely scent, but it also makes the sunscreen waterproof. Although it may work well if you go in the pool, lake, or ocean, you may want to reapply not long after exiting the water. That ensures that your skin is optimally protected. 

DIY Sunscreen

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces virgin coconut oil
• 2 ounces olive oil
• 2 ounces cocoa butter
• 2 ounces beeswax
• 2 ounces non-nano zinc oxide

Instructions:

• Add all of the ingredients to a heat-safe glass measuring cup. Create a double boiler by placing this cup on a cloth inside a saucepan with about an inch of water in it. 
• Place the saucepan over medium-low heat and keep it there until the ingredients in the cup are fully melted. Stir to combine and then remove the pitcher carefully from the hot water. 
• Let the mixture cool slightly at room temperature and then pour into a glass container or silicone squeeze tube. Allow to cool completely before sealing the jar/tube and storing in a cool, dark place. 

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During the summer months, it is easy to encounter several pests, including mosquitos and ticks. You can also get tangled up in some poison ivy while hiking if you are not careful. That should not scare you away from being outside and enjoying nature. Skin irritation happens no matter what you do or where you go. When something does happen, jewelweed salve may be the natural, folk remedy that helps your skin issues with ease.

What Is Jewelweed?

Jewelweed is a wild-growing plant that has helped soothe skin irritations for centuries. Some people have used it to calm eczema, while others apply it to keep bug bites from itching. The actual plant grows in shady areas across North America, but you can typically find it near water sources, such as creeks or streams in the forest. You can actually find it growing by its poisonous neighbor: poison ivy. The good news is that it has distinctive orange flowers and seed pods that explode (to a certain degree), making it fun to forage for. 

According to researchers, jewelweed contains powerful natural compounds, especially lawsone. This molecule is believed to contend with urushiol, which is the rash-inducing oil in poison ivy. Some preliminary research shows that rubbing jewelweed on the skin after brushing up against poison ivy can stop the rash before it even starts. How amazing is that?! Lawsone can actually block urushiol, which reduces or prevents rash altogether. Jewelweed also contains saponins, which act like natural soap to help cleanse the skin. 

Traditional And Modern Uses Of Jewelweed

Historically, Native American tribes mashed jewelweed plants to make a poultice to treat poison ivy rashes, cuts, burns, sprains, and insect bites. Modern research backs this up as well! Freshly mashed jewelweed is a popular remedy for stopping a poison ivy rash before it even starts. Jewelweed soap can also help reduce poison ivy rash if you use it right away after contact. In general, soap is efficient at breaking up the oils in poison ivy that cause rash. 

Should you get into some poison ivy, your best bet at avoiding a rash is to use jewelweed right away. It is not always apparent that you have been in contact with poison ivy until it’s too late, especially if you do not know what poison ivy looks like. If that is the case, a DIY jewelweed salve can be a great alternative. Soothe or prevent a poison ivy rash with the following salve, which also works on bug bites and irritated skin. 

DIY Jewelweed Salve

Ingredients:

• Fresh jewelweed, roughly chopped
• 1 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons beeswax pellets
• 10 drops lavender essential oil
• 10 drops tea tree oil
• 1/2 teaspoon vitamin E oil

Instructions:

• Place the jewelweed into a pint-size Mason jar. You want enough plant material to fill the jar up to the halfway point. Cover the jewelweed with olive oil. 
• Fill a saucepan about halfway with water and place a cotton towel at the bottom. Place the jar with the jewelweed and olive oil on top of the cloth, as that will prevent the jar from breaking. 
• Turn the heat to medium-low and bring the water to a simmer. Reduce the heat to a low simmer and keep in the water bath for about three hours. You can add more water if it evaporates. 
• Strain the jewelweed-infused oil through a cheesecloth, giving it a good squeeze to get as much infused oil out as possible. 
• Add one cup of the infused oil and the beeswax to the top of a double boiler and heat until the wax is melted. Stir to combine. 
• Remove from the heat and then stir in the essential oils and vitamin E oil. Pour the mixture into small tins or glass jars and allow the salve to harden at room temperature.
• Use on poison ivy rash, mosquito bites, and eczema or irritated skin.

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A face serum can add moisture and high concentrations of beneficial nutrients to your skin. The ingredients in the serum will determine the benefits for your skin. For example, some serums, like the one in this article, help with early signs of aging, while others are better for hydrating or repairing texture. If you’re looking to enhance your skin care routine with a single product, though, a serum is the ticket.

What Is A Serum?

A serum is essentially a topical skin care product that contains concentrated amounts of active ingredients. With larger amounts of active molecules, a serum can potentially penetrate the skin’s surface with more efficacy that a moisturizer, for example. Due to its high concentration, a serum takes a shorter amount of time to see results. You can think of a serum like a secret weapon designed to treat skin issues such as dullness, discoloration, fine lines, and acne. 

Because a serum is light in nature and delivers active ingredients efficiently and quickly, you apply it first once you cleanse your face. In order to maximize the serum’s benefits, you have to seal it in with a moisturizer or cream. If you use a serum that is suited to the issue you want to address, it can have many benefits. We’ll explain the benefits of this serum below.

Vitamin E Oil

It’s common to see vitamin E oil in many different moisturizers because it works to prevent dry, flaking skin. As a result of moisturizing the skin, vitamin E oil may also reduce skin itching. Keeping the skin properly moisturized is the best way to prevent dry skin, which in turn prevents itchiness. The American Academy of Dermatology Association looked at the benefits of vitamin E oil for people with eczema. Researchers found that vitamin E had a positive effect on eczema. That said, they did not specify whether the focus was on topical or oral vitamin E. More research is necessary on this matter. 

Carrier Oil

Because the serum contains vitamin E oil, you want to choose a carrier oil that is rich in that particular vitamin. Not all skin types can use the same carrier oils, though, so keep that in mind. Additionally, climate and season play a role in your carrier oil choice. As for which carrier oil to choose, well, that depends on your preference and skin type. Some oils that are great sources of vitamin E include sweet almond oil, wheat germ oil, grapeseed oil, and apricot kernel oil. If you have acne-prone skin, you may want to try jojoba oil, rosehip oil, hemp oil. 

Essential Oils

The use of essential oils is entirely optional in this face serum recipe. Most people do not react to essential oils if they are properly diluted with carrier oils. You can always use less and increase to a stronger dilution if you desire. A 0.5% dilution is generally what dermatologists recommend for facial skin, though. As far as which essential oils to choose, consider the following:

• Anti-aging: frankincense, helichrysum, carrot seed, geranium, and chamomile essential oils
• Glowing skin: lavender, sandalwood, jasmine, and helichrysum essential oils
• Fighting acne: lemongrass, tea tree, bergamot, grapefruit, eucalyptus, cedarwood, juniper berry, and cypress essential oils

DIY Face Serum

Ingredients:

• 1 tsp pure vitamin E oil
• 2 ounces carrier oil of choice 
• 10-20 drops essential oils (optional)

Instructions:

• Add all of the ingredients to a small dropper bottle, screw on the top, and shake well to combine. 
• Store the serum in a cool, dark place to preserve the healing properties. 
• To use, apply a few drops of the serum to your face and massage into the skin for about one minute. It’s a great serum to use for overnight treatment!

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When that summer sun blazes down on you, it is very easy to get a sunburn, especially if you do not apply sunscreen. Maybe you apply sunscreen, but it isn’t good enough or not the right one for you. Sunscreens work to protect your skin from ultraviolet (UV) radiation, reduce the risk of skin cancer, and help prevent sunburn and premature aging. When you have a better understanding of sunscreen factors, including SPF, water resistance, and broad-spectrum protection, you can make a more educated choice about which product works best for your skin type. 

Is Lotion Better Than Spray?

A lot of people buy sunscreen sprays because they are easy to apply. The best type of sunscreen, be it a spray, gel, ointment, wax, lotion, or cream, is ultimately up to your personal preference. Just make sure that you choose an option that you will wear daily. Additionally, different formulas work better for different skin types. Some cream-based sunscreens may be better for dry skin, while a gel-based sunscreen caters to oily skin. A stick or wax may be easier to use on the face, while spray sunscreens can be great to apply on kids. Just try to avoid spray sunscreens that contain insect repellents, as insect repellents should be used sparingly. 

Look For Broad-Spectrum Protection

The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends that you use broad-spectrum sunscreens because they provide protection from ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. UVA rays, or “aging rays,” can increase the risk of premature aging, wrinkles, and age spots. They can penetrate glass windows, so you can be at risk of sun damage even if you are inside. UVB rays, or “burning rays,” are the primary cause of sunburn. They can’t pass through glass windows, but you should still protect the skin from them. 

Choose SPF 30 Or Higher

Sun protection factor (SPF) is the number that represents how much UV radiation exposure the skin can take without burning. This number does not indicate the amount of time you can spend in the sun. Your skin type, how often you reapply, and the time of day can influence your risk of sunburn. Experts suggest that you reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more frequently if you sweat a lot or go in the water. The AAD recommends using a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, which blocks 97% of the sun’s UVB rays. No sunscreen will block 100% of UVB rays, though. 

Are Mineral Sunscreens Better Than Chemical Sunscreens?

First and foremost, both are effective, but they contain different active ingredients. Mineral sunscreens typically contain titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, or both. They tend to leave a white residue on the skin, and dermatologists recommend them for people with sensitive skin, as they do not contain harsh chemicals. Chemical sunscreens do not contain titanium dioxide or zinc oxide; rather, they have a lighter formula that doesn’t leave a white residue on the skin. That said, chemical sunscreens do contain ingredients that can irritate the skin or pose threats to marine life and coral reefs. No matter which ones you choose, make sure to read the list of active ingredients. 

What Chemicals To Look Out For

There are certain ingredients in chemical sunscreens that can cause side effects, especially if you have sensitive skin, allergies, or a health condition. Some factors to consider:

• Environmental impact: Some chemicals in sunscreens can be harmful to coral reefs and marine life. A 2022 report from the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) urged the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to dig deeper into the impact of sunscreens on marine ecosystems. 
• Potential allergens: Avobenzone and octocrylene, among other ingredients, can cause allergic reactions like contact dermatitis. Fragrances, alcohols, and other preservatives can also cause reactions. Consider trying the sunscreen on a small patch of skin to see how your skin responds before lathering it all over your body. 
• Potential chemical absorption: Some sunscreen ingredients can actually linger in the bloodstream for extended periods. One study found that six ingredients, including oxybenzone, octocrylene, avobenzone, homosalate, octinoxate, and octisalate, were absorbed in the bloodstream after one use. The study noted that they reached levels in the blood that surpassed the FDA’s threshold. 

Match It To Your Skin Type

Some sunscreens are made specifically for certain skin types. If you thoroughly read a product’s label, you can determine if it is the right fit for your skin. If you have dry skin, you may want a sunscreen that contains moisturizers. Non-comedogenic and oil-free sunscreens may benefit those with acne-prone or oily skin. Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic sunscreens are excellent for sensitive skin.

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How great is it that you get to enjoy the beautiful summer months? The sun rises early, sets late, and you get to enjoy hiking, gardening, beach or lake days, and backyard barbecues. As incredible as all that sounds, the bugs, depending on where you live, can be relentless. From mosquitos and ticks to chiggers and spiders, summertime can be a brutal time for bug bites. Fortunately, you can be ready to soothe that itchiness with a homemade plantain salve. 

What Is Plantain? 

Let us first clarify one thing regarding the name of this herb. Despite sharing the same name, plantain weed is unrelated to plantain fruit. With a long history as a healing plant, plantain is widely known in the herbalist community as “nature’s band-aid.” Plantain (Plantago major), grows naturally in many yards and fields all over the United States. It only came to the U.S. by way of new settlers from other countries. Natives in both America and New Zealand referred to plantain as “Englishman’s foot” or “white man’s foot.”

Believe it or not, you can find plantain weed in most yards and fields across the U.S., and it will take over unless you control it. It grows as a rosette with leaves that surround the stem at the base. The leaves are more oval and somewhat large, with the stems standing above them with seeds at the top. No matter the variety of plantain weed, all of them work interchangeably, so you don’t have to worry about which one is more potent for your DIY salve. 

Plantain Benefits

Plantain weed has a long list of benefits for both internal and external uses. For the purpose of this article, we will focus on plantain’s benefits for the skin. Exhibiting antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and astringent properties, plantain may help relieve a variety of common skin ailments and bug bites. Historically, plantain leaves were used to help heal minor wounds, scrapes, cuts, bumps, infections, bruises, and burns. 

On its own, plantain weed is a complete medicine, meaning you don’t need to add anything to it to create an effective herbal remedy. At the same time, you can incorporate other herbs or ingredients to incorporate other soothing benefits, which is especially beneficial for relieving bug bites. Typically, it isn’t the actual bite that causes the itch; rather, it is an anesthetic that the bug injects you with as it drinks your blood! If you are allergic to that anesthetic, the body attacks the substance with white blood cells, causing the area to become inflamed and red. 

The salve in this article calls for you to infuse dried plantain leaves into a carrier oil of your choice. We listed sweet almond oil, but you can use olive oil, avocado oil, coconut oil, or jojoba oil if you prefer. Once you infuse the oil, you will melt beeswax and mix in the infused oil with it before allowing it to solidify at room temperature. The beeswax helps moisturize and protect the skin, which may help relieve itching. It also creates a barrier on the skin that protects the bite to promote healing. 

DIY Plantain Salve

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried plantain leaves
• 1.5 cups sweet almond oil (or carrier oil of choice)
• 1 ounce beeswax

Instructions:

• Put the dried plantain leaves into a glass pint jar and pour the oil in to cover the leaves. 
• Screw on the lid and allow the oil to infuse for about four to six weeks. Ideally, place the jar in a cool spot away from direct sunlight. 
• Once the oil has infused, strain the leaves from the oil through a fine mesh sieve and make sure to press out any remaining oil from the leaves. 
• Pour one cup of the plantain infused oil into the top of a double boiler over medium-low heat and add the beeswax. Stir occasionally until the beeswax is fully melted. 
• Remove from heat and stir more to combine. Pour the mixture into several small tins or jars and allow the salve to set at room temperature (this will take a couple hours). 
• The plantain salve is ready to use once it is solidified. The salve will keep fresh for a year if kept in a cool, dry place.

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When it comes to the world of DIY skin care products, some are much better than others. Sometimes, you have to make the recipe a few times in order to get it right. Maybe you tweak a couple ingredients or adjust the measurements to achieve the results you want. We are happy to say that we finally landed on a quality all-natural sunscreen recipe that you will love. 

Typically, Americans have to choose between chemical sunscreens and mineral sunscreens. Chemical sunscreens have inferior stability and penetrate the skin, which can disrupt the body’s hormonal system. Mineral sunscreens that contain zinc or titanium tend to contain nanoparticles or they are micronized. With the DIY sunscreen in this article, you do not have to choose between chemical and micronized sunscreens. What you do get is a combination of natural ingredients that help protect the skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. 

Beeswax

For centuries, many cultures have used beeswax for a number of reasons. Traditionally used to make candles, beeswax has a host of health benefits and can be used in various skin and hair care products. The Ancient Egyptians used beeswax to make paint and the Ancient Romans used it to help soften the skin. Today, research studies note that beeswax may form a barrier on the skin, protecting it from dryness and environmental assaults. It also attracts water to the skin, which helps keep the skin hydrated over time. In one study, beeswax and zinc oxide exhibited an ability to protect from UVA and UVB to a certain extent. That said, it had a lower water resistance value than other sunscreens. 

Non-Nano Zinc Oxide

Non-nano zinc oxide is the active ingredient in many natural mineral sunscreens. It has been proven to provide broad-spectrum coverage against UVA and UVB rays. The “non-nano” means that you can enjoy all the benefits of zinc oxide in the safest way possible. Non-nano zinc oxide sunscreen is probably the safest for your skin. It doesn’t pose the risk of entering your bloodstream, so you can steer clear of potentially harmful toxins that may exist in commercial sunscreens. Just keep in mind that not all non-nano zinc oxide is created equal. Zinc leaves a white cast on the skin, so some manufacturers have developed nano-sized particles to make it less chalky and more sheer after application. 

Jojoba Oil

This oil is a popular ingredient in many natural sunscreen products. Jojoba oil contains both vitamin E and an assortment of antioxidants. One study suggests that the combination of vitamin E and other antioxidant compounds can help protect the skin from sun damage. In addition to the vitamin E that’s naturally present in jojoba oil, the sunscreen recipe in this article also contains vitamin E oil. If you are sunburnt, you can use jojoba oil to help restore moisture and promote healing to soothe the skin. 

DIY Sunscreen

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup virgin, unrefined coconut oil
• 1/3 cup jojoba oil
• 1 tablespoon beeswax
• 1 tbsp organic shea butter
• 1/3 cup non-nano zinc oxide
• 1/2 teaspoon vitamin E oil

Instructions:

• Add all of the ingredients (except the zinc oxide) to a heat-safe glass bowl. 
• Place the bowl over a pot of shallow, slightly simmering water. Leave on the pot until the ingredients in the bowl are fully melted. Stir every so often to move the process along.
• Remove the pot from the stove and carefully take the bowl off the pot. Add the zinc oxide powder slowly and stir to combine. 
• Carefully pour this mixture into the container of your choice and store in a cool, dry place. Use when fully cooled.

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